2013 JCF Grantee Mac Anderson

When I first applied to the grant I was homeless and jobless and felt as though I had little to no support. It might have possibly been the lowest point in my life.

I have pushed against discrimination towards me even in high school and middle school when no one would talk to me. I have lost many friends and family upon coming out. But it has ultimately led me to further happiness with myself. I am seeking to further my transition to allow me to be more aligned with my body and comfortable with myself and my identity. To be more comfortable in public, less worried about being outed, go to the beach or swimming pool, to breathe deeply for the first time in my life.

I now have a permanent living situation in Western Massachusetts and I am working at a retirement home. Once I can get in a better financial situation I hope to pursue an education in an art college because that is where my talent lies. I am an artist and I enjoy making people happy with my art. I love having the ability to create something from nothing and seeing the beauty in everything. I enjoy the small things in my life as well as the big things.

Every time I hear or think about the Jim Collins Foundation I feel limitless and lighter than a feather. I feel so in words I can only describe and explain as infinite. I cannot believe there is a foundation like this to help transgender people — there should be more in the world.